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Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Story of Huminodun and meaning of Kaamatan
State Level Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2025, Tati Atitih Yatih Robert, representing the district of Tamparuli, with her fellow top seven finishers. As May came to a close with the newest Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2025 crowned, the echoes of gongs faded into the cool Sabahan evening. The final cheers of the crowd rang out at the Hongkod Koisaan Hall (KDCA) in Penampang, where the climax of Kaamatan 2025 had just unfolded. Laughter and music gave way to quiet reflection as families returned home, their hearts full from a month-long celebration that brought villages and cities to life. Once again, Sabah had come together, united in thanksgiving, in joy, and in memory. And as the dust settled from traditional dances, spirited singing and cultural showcases, what lingered was the spirit of a story, a story that has defined Kaamatan for generations. At the heart of this grand harvest celebration lies an ancient and sacred tale, the story of Huminodun. It is a story passed down through generations of Kadazandusun elders, whispered over firelight, retold at community gatherings and honoured in sacred rites. Long ago, the world was a very different place. The land was young, and the people lived under the benevolent care of Kinoingan and his wife, Suminundu, divine beings who watched over humanity with love. They nurtured the earth and taught the people to live in harmony with nature. But harmony was shattered when a great famine descended. Crops failed, rivers ran dry, and the soil could no longer bear fruit. The people suffered, crying out in anguish as starvation threatened to wipe them out. Kinoingan, heartbroken by the suffering of his creation, searched for a solution. It was then that he realised only a great sacrifice could save the world. And that sacrifice would have to come from someone divine, someone pure of heart. His only daughter, Huminodun, a radiant young woman known for her grace, wisdom and compassion, stepped forward. Seeing the pain of her people, she offered herself willingly, knowing that her death would restore life to the earth. Kinoingan wept, but he honoured her bravery. Huminodun's body was laid to rest in the ground, and from it sprang rice, the sacred grain that became the lifeblood of the Kadazandusun people. Her flesh became nourishment and her spirit, 'Bambazon,' now dwells in every grain of rice. This divine sacrifice is the spiritual foundation of Kaamatan. It is not just a harvest festival; it is a remembrance, a thanksgiving and a renewal. Every time rice is planted or harvested, every time it is eaten, the people remember Huminodun. Her story is a testament to the belief that from selflessness springs abundance, and that life is a gift not to be taken for granted. Although rooted in ancient beliefs, Kaamatan today has evolved into a vibrant and inclusive celebration that brings together Sabahans from all walks of life. Traditionally observed by the Kadazandusun community, it is now embraced by nearly every ethnic group in the state: the Murut, Rungus, Lundayeh, Tatana, Tidong, Bisaya, Bajau, Chinese and others, each contributing their own colours, music, food, and language to the month-long celebration. It is a cultural mosaic bound together by shared gratitude and mutual respect. At the spiritual heart of Kaamatan is the Magavau, a sacred ritual led by the 'Bobohizan,' the high priestess of the Kadazandusun. She calls forth the spirit of Bambazon in an ancient ceremony filled with chants and offerings, ensuring that the rice spirit remains content and that the cycle of fertility continues. Although fewer communities today practise the Magavau, its symbolism remains strong, reminding all of the sacred relationship between humanity and the earth. Complementing these sacred elements are the rich cultural expressions that make Kaamatan such a joyful celebration. The Sumazau, Sabah's most iconic traditional dance, sees dancers move with slow, birdlike grace to the rhythm of gongs. Traditional attires, elaborately beaded and finely embroidered, fill community halls with a kaleidoscope of colours. Villages host friendly competitions in traditional sports, while food stalls offer everything from hinava to linopot, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of the land. Among the most eagerly anticipated highlights of Kaamatan is the Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan pageant, a unique cultural event held in honour of Huminodun herself. District winners from across Sabah and other parts of Malaysia gather to compete, not merely in beauty, but in cultural knowledge, poise, and the embodiment of Huminodun's virtues. The Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan, crowned at the peak of Kaamatan, is not just a beauty queen; she is a cultural ambassador, a living symbol of grace, sacrifice and continuity. In recent years, another event has added new dimension to the festivities: the Buvazoi Tavantang Kaamatan, formerly known as Mister Kaamatan. This male cultural pageant, which has been rebranded to Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan from next year onwards, celebrates young Sabahan men who exemplify strength, cultural awareness and community leadership. Contestants compete not only in physique but in their understanding of heritage, language and values. The emergence of Buvazoi Tavantang Kaamatan alongside Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan reflects the modern celebration's balance, honouring both masculine and feminine contributions to community and traditions. No less exciting is the Sugandoi Kaamatan, a singing competition that draws vocal talents from across Sabah. Held at district and state levels, the Sugandoi Kaamatan gives voice to the rich musical traditions of the people. Contestants sing in native languages and often perform songs that carry the rhythms and stories of their ancestors. For many, winning Sugandoi Kaamatan is not just a personal triumph; it is a chance to preserve their culture through the power of song. In a festival so deeply rooted in oral tradition, Sugandoi Kaamatan keeps storytelling alive in one of its most beautiful forms. Kaamatan has also grown to become an expression of unity. In a state defined by its ethnic and religious diversity, Kaamatan is a space where all are welcome. It is common to see Muslims and Christians, rural villagers and urban professionals, young and old coming together to celebrate. Cultural exhibitions, community open houses and public performances create opportunities for mutual understanding, bridging generations and backgrounds. It is, in many ways, a blueprint for harmony, showing that cultural pride and inclusiveness can coexist. Beyond the dancing, singing and pageantry, Kaamatan is a powerful reaffirmation of identity. As globalisation and modernity threaten to erode traditional practices, this festival serves as a living classroom where the youth learn the meaning of their customs. It is an opportunity for older generations to pass down stories, rituals and skills, not just to preserve them, but to breathe new life into them. In this sense, Kaamatan is not only a celebration of the harvest, but a harvest of culture itself. It is also a time of economic vitality. As Sabahans travel to their hometowns or flock to celebration grounds, rural and local economies benefit. Artisans sell traditional crafts, farmers showcase their produce and young entrepreneurs use the festive spirit to market everything from food to fashion. Tourists, both local and foreign, are drawn to the rich tapestry of sights, sounds and flavours, making Kaamatan one of the most significant cultural attractions in the region. Yet, when the last gong sounds and the lights dim, what remains is the story of Huminodun, a reminder that from sacrifice comes sustenance, and from gratitude comes unity. Her spirit, said to dwell in every grain of rice, continues to nourish the people, not just physically, but spiritually. In honouring her, Sabahans reaffirm their connection to the land, to each other, and to the timeless values of compassion, selflessness and resilience. I brought my young Chinese friend Ben to KDCA to experience Kaamatan firsthand. Although he is a Sabahan, he had only heard of the festival in passing and was unfamiliar with its deeper cultural significance. Our visit opened his eyes to the richness of this celebration. He thoroughly enjoyed the day, starting with the Buvazoi Tavantang Kaamatan contest, where he was captivated by the vibrant performances. He sampled lihing, explored the traditional houses that showcased the diverse heritage of Sabah's indigenous communities, and even bought a beautiful bead necklace and a traditional headband as keepsakes. It was a meaningful and immersive introduction to the spirit of Kaamatan. With Kaamatan 2025 over, the people of Sabah carry forward not only the joy of celebration but the weight of legacy. From ancient story to modern festivity, the journey of Kaamatan is one of cultural endurance and spiritual truth. It is a celebration not only of what is harvested from the land but what is cherished in the heart. Footnote Dr Richard A. Gontusan is a Human Resource Skill Training and Investment Consultants. His Kaamatan activities included conducting public speaking talks to Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan contestants, judging the contest at district levels and helping to set the questions for the Q & A segment of the State Level Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2025. His views expressed in this article are not necessarily the views of The Borneo Post
Barnama
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Barnama
Teacher Atitih Yatih Robert Crowned Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2025
PENAMPANG, May 31 (Bernama) -- Atitih Yatih Robert, a prospective Malay Language teacher, who was representing the Tamparuli sub-district, was crowned Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2025 during the culmination of the Kaamatan Festival at the Hongkod Koisaan Hall of the Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) here tonight. Atitih Yatih, 26, a Bachelor of Education (Malay Language) graduate from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) last December and currently awaiting a teaching placement, beat 51 contestants in the traditional beauty pageant of Sabah's paddy harvest season held annually since 1960. Earlier, Atitih Yatih, who participated in the competition for the second time this year after her first attempt in 2017, was selected from the round of 15 best participants before advancing to today's last stage of the top seven finalists, who were judged on public speaking, general knowledge, heritage and cultural understanding in their mother tongue (native language). Unduk Ngadau is a traditional beauty pageant that showcases the diverse ethnic cultures and heritage of Sabah held in memory of the legendary 'Huminodun' who sacrificed herself for the bountiful harvest and well-being of her people in the religious observance (transcending folklore and legend) of the Kadazan-Dusun people. Meanwhile, when interviewed by reporters, Atitih Yatih said she initially only targeted the top seven in the competition and was breathless to emerge as the Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2025. "It is difficult for me to describe this victory because I have not yet processed this in my mind, I am still very shocked. I would like to thank all those who supported me, my family and friends who were willing to come from afar to support me. "My plans after this depends on where I will be placed, I am waiting for my teaching placement … as a Malay Language teacher later," said Atitih Yatih, who hoped that this success would inspire the younger generation to preserve Sabah's culture and heritage. She received a trophy, RM15,000 in cash and various prizes presented by the wife of the Yang di-Pertua (Governor) of Sabah, Toh Puan Faridah Tussin in the spectacle and witnessed by the wife of the Chief Minister, Datin Seri Juliah Salag, and the Joint Chairmen of the Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan, Datuk Joanna Datuk Kitingan and Dr Mary Gambidau. Atitih Yatih was then crowned as Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2025 by Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2024 Hyellene Danius who is also a Malay Language teacher.
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Kaamatan: A call for unity in the land of Huminodun
As Sabah welcomes the radiant glow of Kaamatan and the haunting strains of the sompoton fill the valleys, this sacred period, rooted in the legend of Huminodun, prompts deep introspection and thankfulness. Huminodun, the revered maiden whose selfless act brought forth the first rice harvest, embodies unity and altruism. This leads to a critical question: How can a person who honors such a powerful symbol of cohesion remain entangled in political disarray? The Kadazandusun, Sabah's largest indigenous community, holds vast potential. However, their true strength can only be unlocked by embracing the ancient wisdom of Misompuru (Unity) and forging a collective vision for what lies ahead. At the core of Kadazandusun beliefs is the touching narrative of Huminodun. Faced with devastating famine, Kinoingan, the creator deity, made an unimaginable choice: to save humanity, he had to sacrifice his only child. With immense love and dedication, Huminodun willingly offered herself. Her body was laid into the earth, from which the first rice emerged, sustaining countless generations. This ultimate sacrifice, commemorated yearly during Kaamatan through ceremonies like the Magavau, transcends a mere story of sorrow; it stands as a powerful testament to the strength of unity and the profound connection between individuals and their community. The Unduk Ngadau, or harvest queen, chosen during the festival, personifies Huminodun's purity, wisdom, and grace. Her symbolic role reminds the community that leadership must serve the greater good. Yet, in today's political landscape, this sacred covenant appears forgotten. How has a people united by the legacy of a heroine who gave her life for unity allowed themselves to splinter into factions that seem to thrive on division? Sabah's political sphere has become increasingly fragmented, with multiple parties — UPKO, PBS, PBRS, STAR, among others — jostling for influence under the banner of Kadazandusun rights. Despite their common cause, internal rivalries, shifting alliances, and competing agendas have weakened their collective voice. This political disunity has led to tangible consequences. Native land rights, enshrined in law, are routinely undermined by external interests, yet without a united political front, enforcement remains elusive. Economically, many rural Kadazandusun communities continue to face hardship, trapped in cycles of poverty and underdevelopment, while disjointed leadership fails to marshal coordinated advocacy. The cultural cost is no less grave. A 2017 Borneo Post Online article, 'The Kadazandusun language dilemma,' highlighted that many district youth under thirty struggled to speak Kadazan. This aligns with a 2005 UNESCO report deeming Kadazandusun endangered, a critical indicator that the culture risks disappearing without targeted efforts. This is not the legacy Huminodun died to bequeath. Her act was a call to unity, not a license for petty squabbles. Kaamatan, at its core, has always been more than a celebration of harvest — it is a time of renewal, of reconciling differences, sharing abundance, and reaffirming kinship. In the past, rituals led by the bobohizan or bombolian were not only spiritual acts but mechanisms for healing and consensus. Elders resolved conflicts, families shared the first rice harvest, and the community danced the sumazau in harmonious rhythm, reflecting a society at peace with itself. Today, Kaamatan risks becoming a hollow shell — reduced to pageantry and performance, stripped of its deeper meaning — unless its essence is reclaimed. Imagine if political leaders, instead of trading barbs, genuinely shared tapai under the roof of Hongkod Koisaan, pledging collaboration over competition. Picture the unveiling of a unified agenda for the Kadazandusun people — rooted in land protection, cultural preservation and educational reform — delivered not in separate party platforms, but as a collective vision. Envision young people and women — torchbearers of Huminodun's spirit — leading campaigns that transcend partisan lines, igniting hope in both village halls and digital spaces. The image of Kadazandusun leaders joining in the sumazau, moving in unison like the intertwined roots of the rice plant, could become a powerful living symbol of Misompuru — not just a concept, but a call to action. Around the world, indigenous peoples have found strength in solidarity. The Māori of New Zealand, by uniting under the framework of the Treaty of Waitangi, secured not only land reparations but a firm voice in parliament. In the United States, the Navajo Nation, despite its internal diversity, consolidated political power to protect its resources and secure federal support. These examples show that unity is not a surrender of identity; it is a strategy for survival and growth. The Kadazandusun, with their profound cultural heritage, could likewise wield greater influence through cooperation and shared purpose. Perhaps, like the Māori Kingitanga, a central movement rooted in cultural pride and political coordination could emerge. To make Misompuru a reality, several key steps are needed. The formation of a Kadazandusun Political Council — serving as a neutral platform akin to the bobohizan's role as mediator — could help align party priorities and push for crucial legislation, from protecting Native Customary Rights (NCR) land to intensifying Kadazandusun-language education and developing sustainable rural economies. Grassroots initiatives should accompany this political reawakening. A 'Tumahui do Huminodun' campaign could mobilize youth around the symbolism of her sacrifice, linking tradition to activism through art, dialogue, and community action. Even simple efforts, such as rival politicians co-hosting Kaamatan activities or jointly planting rice, can plant seeds of trust and solidarity. As the gongs echo and the scent of hinava drifts through the air, this Kaamatan, the Kadazandusun are called to make a choice. Will they continue down a path of fragmentation, or rise together as people bound by the same moon that once witnessed their ancestors dance in unity? Huminodun's story is not merely a legend to be admired; it is a roadmap waiting to be followed. Just as her body became the rice that sustained a people, today's leaders must transform their ambitions into nourishment for the collective good. This moment goes beyond politics. It is about safeguarding a heritage — the terraced paddies, the chants of the bobohizan, the laughter of children speaking the language of their forebears. It is about honoring the spirits of those who came before by securing a dignified future for those yet to come. Let this Kaamatan mark a new beginning. Let it prove that Misompuru is not a forgotten dream but a living, breathing force. For as the proverb reminds us: 'Ounsik do Huminodun, ounsik do Kaamatan.' Without Huminodun, there is no harvest. And without unity, there is no future. Nokoturu ti Huminodun, moginum ti tapai do Misompuru (Follow Huminodun's path, and drink the rice wine of unity.)
The Star
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Beloved Sabah folk tale comes to KL theatre stage for Kaamatan celebration
Queennera Francis Kitingon steps into the role of Princess Huminodun in 'Huminodun: Muzikal Puteri Nabalu', which takes the stage at Auditorium Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) in Kuala Lumpur this weekend. Photo: Bernama Theatre production Huminodun: Muzikal Puteri Nabalu, which highlights the tale of a legendary princess from Sabah, will be staged at the Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) auditorium in Kuala Lumpur this weekend in conjunction with the Kaamatan festival. It tells the story of the sacrifice of Princess Huminodun, a virtuous maiden who willingly sacrifices her life to save her land and people from famine. Based on an original script by Satra Nurizman and adapted by Amsalib Pisali, the play is directed by Nawfal Zamri, who faced the challenge of working in the Kadazandusun language - a task that demanded a deep grasp of its tone and pronunciation. "I'm from Perak and not familiar with this language but I'm grateful to have help from friends in Sabah to review the actors' pronunciation because language and intonation are very important," said Nawfal at a recent media conference. Marlenny says the folk tale offers insight into sacrifice and love through a Sabahan lens, highlighting a mother's pain in giving up her child for her people's survival. Photo: Bernama "We also didn't want to lose the authentic feel. So, several important parts are retained in the original language, especially the emotional dialogues. However, the overall structure of the performance has been arranged to be easily understood by the audience," he added. For this production, Nawfal also conducted field research in Sabah, visiting sites believed to be connected to the origins of the Huminodun legend. Huminodun: Muzikal Puteri Nabalu is presented by KGE Studio and the Sabah Community Aid Association, in collaboration with Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, DBP and Pertubuhan Anak Karya Malaysia, and supported via grants from Yayasan Hasanah and ArtFast. The play's cast includes Queenenra Francine as Princess Huminodun, and Virtoues Romana, Ijat Ashari, Faizan Deraman, Verd and Dr Marlenny Deen Erwan. 'My hope is for this play to serve as a gateway for more stories from Sabah and Sarawak to be staged and appreciated,' says Anas. Photo: Bernama Marlenny, who portrays Suminundu, the mother of Princess Huminodun, shared that the production goes beyond entertainment — it serves as a bridge for cross-cultural understanding, offering audiences a deeper appreciation of Sabahan heritage and values. "This Sabah folk tale gives the audience an opportunity to understand the values of sacrifice and love from a different cultural perspective. The story portrays a mother's emotion as she allows her child to be sacrificed for the well-being of the people,' she said. Producer and founder of KGE Studio Anas Amdan said the original staging of Huminodun in 2022 in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, won four awards at the Malaysia Theatre Awards, serving as a stepping stone to bring the play to Kuala Lumpur. "My hope is for this play to serve as a gateway for more stories from Sabah and Sarawak to be staged and appreciated. We want to promote this work not merely for commercial gain but for its significant cultural value and audience response,' he said. - Bernama
The Star
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Reigning Unduk Ngadau Danius to crown successor from among 51 finalists on May 31
KOTA KINABALU: Reigning queen Hyellene Danius will perform her final duty this Saturday (May 31) as she prepares to hand over the crown to the fairest maiden of all, marking the ceremonial climax of the 65th edition of the National Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan. Danius, who has served as a cultural ambassador over the past year, will crown one of 51 young Sabahan lasses, each representing districts across Malaysia and proudly carrying the spirit of Huminodun into the future. The journey officially began on May 26 with the registration of all finalists at the Hilton Hotel here, signalling the start of the Cultural Competition Week leading up to the grand coronation at the Hongkod Koisaan Hall in Penampang. 'This year's pageant is especially meaningful as it commemorates 65 years of celebrating the beauty, wisdom, and strength of Kadazandusun women,' said co-chairman Datuk Joanna Kitingan. Kinabatangan is the only district unrepresented this year due to the absence of entries at the local level, a rare occurrence in the competition's long-standing history. Throughout the week, finalists will undergo a cultural immersion, such as visiting the Sabah Museum to engage in traditional practices such as Magagung (gong beating), Menutu Parai (rice pounding), bead-making, and preparing native dishes like tuhau, losun, and hinava. The finalists will also take part in the Malaysia International Cocoa Festival, the Culture, Agro-tourism and Nature (CAN) short film awards, and attend forums on heritage and healthcare. Their cultural journey also includes visits to traditional homes at Kampung Budaya Koisaan under the KadazanDusun Cultural Association (KDCA). A major highlight is the Sodop Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan gala night on May 28, where cultural leaders and dignitaries will gather to honour the finalists. While dinner tables are sold out, gallery tickets without dinner are still available to the public. On coronation day, all 51 finalists will take the stage to introduce themselves and perform before the field is narrowed to 15. These selected few will respond to questions in their native languages, supported by interpreters for Lundayeh and Murut speakers. The top seven will proceed to the final round of questioning before the new queen is announced. Kitingan said judging will be carried out by a panel of seven, using a computerised scoring system, and the new Unduk Ngadau queen is expected to be announced at 5pm or 6pm on May 31. The winner of Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2025 will receive RM15,000 in cash, a specially designed crown, a handcrafted beaded sash, a scholarship from North Borneo University College (NBUC), and various sponsored prizes. To mark the milestone 65th anniversary, organisers will also unveil a commemorative stamp and souvenir book highlighting the rich legacy of the Unduk Ngadau pageant. This year's Kaamatan Festival is themed "Kaamatan montok Toinsanan (Kaamatan for All)". The Unduk Ngadau 2025 stands as testament to cultural continuity, honouring heritage while empowering women to become cultural torchbearers in today's world.
